The Adventure Program offers a variety of bold activities and services for those wanting to try new things, explore new places, and build their knowledge of the world. Whether you go on a trip or workshop, climb the top rope or bouldering walls, utilize our equipment for rent, or just need a bike repair, you have the ability to make it your own at Iowa State University.

At the current time paddle sport rentals including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards have been suspended.   

  • A women reaching for a hold on the State Gym climbing wall

    Climbing Walls

    Recreation Services at Iowa State University has climbing walls at State Gym and Lied Rec Center. Top Rope wall is open when staff is there to supervise while Bouldering walls open anytime facilities are open.

    Top-Rope at State Gym is available with all needed equipment available on-site, free of charge. 

  • Biking

    Equipment Rental

    Equipment rental is available at the Adventure Program desk in State Gym. Equipment rental is available for a small fee and is open to both Recreation Services members and non-members.

    Equipment available for rent includes camping supplies, game equipment like sports balls and nets, bicycles, and climbing equipment. 

  • Bicycle maintenance at Recreation Services

    Bike Maintenance

    If you're in need of a brake adjustment, quick tune, or are wanting a safety inspection on your bike, the Adventure Program has you covered. Book an appointment and bring your bike in today so you can get back to your adventure!

  • Women climb night

    Women* Climb Night

    A welcoming environment for climbers who identify as women or genderqueer.  This event is open to all genders and allows for a less intimidating environment for climbers, new or otherwise to climb and meet others interested in climbing. 

Trips and Workshops

Explore the beautiful vistas the United States has to offer with an Adventure Program trip, or hone your outdoor skills with a workshop.

Trips include transportation, food at the destination, technical equipment, logistics and reservations, and a trip leader to plan and manage the trip. Hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping trips are available at various destinations throughout the United States. Trips range in length from a day trip to a week or more.

Spring 2025 Trips and Workshops

EventCostDates 
Rock 1

Member $20

Non-member $29

 

REGISTER HERE

February 4This is an introductory course to rock climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear, and basic belaying techniques. Upon completion of this workshop and three follow-up belays, you will obtain a Belay Card for the ISU climbing wall.
Rock 1February 20
Rock 1March 25
Rock 1April 15
Rock 1May 1
    
Rock 2

Members $34 

Non-members $49

REGISTER HERE

February 15This is an introductory course to lead climbing. Safety tools and techniques will be the focus. Skills learned will include but are not limited to knots, terminology, gear and basic lead climbing techniques. Upon completion of this course you will receive a Lead Card that will entitle you to lead climb at the ISU Climbing Wall. The prerequisite for this clinic is to be able to climb at a 5.8 level consistently without falls, have had the Rock 1 belay certification for a minimum of 2 months with ample time down at the wall. Upon signing up you will be assigned 3 pre-work times that must be completed during lead hours or scheduled with one of the staff prior to the day of the class.
    
Weekend Trip - Winona, MN Ice Climbing

Members $225

Non-Members $300

REGISTER HERE

February 7 - 8In this epic adventure you will be shown the beautiful trails of Winona, MN through Cross Country Skiing and will be embarking on a once in a lifetime opportunity to get out and climb some on some of the best ice in the Midwest. No experience is necessary, and all are welcome and encouraged to come join.
    
Weekend Trip - Downhill Skiing Granite Peak Wisconsin

Member $460

Non-Members $500

REGISTER HERE

February 14 - 16Pack your gear and get ready for a weekend of snowy fun at Granite Peak Ski Resort in Rib Mountain State Park! Located in Wausau, Wisconsin, this premier ski destination offers something for everyone—from thrilling runs for seasoned skiers to beginner-friendly slopes. * Ski/Snowboard Rental not included ** Novice Ski/snowboard Lessons not included
    
Spring Break Trip - El Rito Climbing

Member $530 

Non-Members $600

REGISTER HERE

March 14 - 23Need a break from the cold this spring break? Join us for an unforgettable climbing adventure in El Rito, NM! With its unique conglomerate rock formations, this hidden gem offers thrilling climbs for all skill levels. El Rito is the perfect destination to challenge yourself and soak in stunning desert landscapes. Don’t miss out—your next great climbing story starts here!
    
Spring Break Trip - Cumberland Island Backpacking

Member $600 

Non-Members $700

REGISTER HERE

March 16 - 23Step off the beaten path and into a world of untouched beauty with our Cumberland Island National Seashore Backpacking Trip! Known for its pristine beaches, maritime forests, and roaming wild horses, this adventure will take you through one of the most stunning and secluded destinations on the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or new to the trail, this trip is a perfect way to experience backpacking in a new location. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! *though a beach themed week, this will be backcountry backpacking on a remote island with no running water.
    
Eastern Iowa Intro to Outdoor Climbing

Member $80 

Non-member $100

REGISTER HERE

April 19Looking for a thrilling day of adventure? Join us for a Climbing Day Trip to Pictured Rocks in Monticello, Iowa! Known for its scenic limestone cliffs along the Maquoketa River, this climbing spot offers routes for every skill level, from beginners to seasoned climbers. This is your chance to scale the heights of Iowa’s natural beauty, build climbing skills, and have an unforgettable outdoor experience. No prior climbing experience is necessary—just come ready for adventure!
    
Dead Week Lockwood Cafe Ride

Members $5 

Non-members $10

REGISTER HERE

April 26Looking for the perfect ride-and-refuel destination? Join us for a scenic bike ride to Lockwood Café in Ames! Cruise through beautiful trails and quiet streets before arriving at this cozy spot known for its refreshing coffee, delicous crepes, and friendly atmosphere.
    
Des Moines Mountain Biking

Member $75

Non-member $90

REGISTER HERE

April 26Discover the thrill of mountain biking in Des Moines, Iowa! With scenic trails weaving through lush parks and woodlands, the city is a hidden gem for riders of all skill levels. *we will be on single-track dirt mountain bike trails with slight to moderate elevation, if pavement is what you are looking for check out our Deak Week Lockwood Café Ride or the High Trestle Trail Ride this semester.
    
Weekend Trip - Eastern Iowa Backpacking Yellow River

Members $150

Non-Members $170

REGISTER HERE

April 26 - 27Discover the hidden gem of Eastern Iowa with our Yellow River State Forest Backpacking Trip! Known for its rolling hills, scenic bluffs, and quiet woodland trails, this trip is the perfect escape into nature’s tranquility. This trip is great for both beginner backpackers and experienced adventurers looking to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Spots are limited, so don’t wait to sign up for this adventure.
    
Canoeing the Des Moines River

Member $60

Non-Members $70

REGISTER HERE

May 3Canoeing on the Des Moines in the spring can be a fun and relaxing time. This trip will start out in the late morning and we will have lunch at the put-in. Once on the river the group will paddle and float for approximately 6.5 miles through some scenic sections of Iowa. This is a great introductory trip into river travel.
    
High Trestle Trail Biking

Member $65

Non-Members $75

REGISTER HERE

May 4Join us for an unforgettable bike ride along the iconic High Trestle Trail, featuring breathtaking views from the High Trestle Trail Bridge—one of Iowa's most stunning landmarks! Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for an outdoor adventure, this ride is perfect for exploring the beauty of Iowa’s landscape. *we have a limited quantity of bikes so if you have a bike bring it along.